A hybrid carrier that takes its humble beginnings from both the ARC-170 starfighter and the Republic Gunship.
The AAC-550 is primarily a defence craft but has the abilility to cary large payloads or troops.
Unlike the Republic gunship that can deliver shock troops at lightning speeds due to its open payload area, the AAC-550 is somewhat slower due to the necessity to land and deploy its payload ramp at the rear but in contrast, it's more heavily armoured and sports a greater array of weaponry.
Its sluggish and cumbersome appearence belays its true manouverablity thanks to a unique set of RCS quad thrusters fitted to its belly fuslilage that can allow it to turn 180 degrees at break neck speeds without any impact from inertia.

It is also equipped with an interchangable pod system (mounted on the upper dorsal section) that currently sports a pair of Ion inverter cannons but can be switched to carry sensor pallets and recon equipment.
All in all the AAC-550, despite appearing a little bulky, is a highly versitile vessel and its dependability and heavy weaponry have rightly earned this craft the nick name 'GUNSLINGER'.